Netflix’s Live-Action Solo Leveling Sparks Anime Fan Debate

When Netflix announced plans for a live-action adaptation of the popular anime series Solo Leveling, reactions among fans were a mix of skepticism and concern. Originally a Korean web novel from 2016, Solo Leveling gained immense popularity after being adapted into an anime series in 2024. The story follows a lowly monster hunter’s rise to power in a world where humans, known as “hunters,” battle magical monsters that emerge from mysterious portals. Despite the series’ success, fans question whether a live-action version can do justice to the original.

“I have never had a great experience with live-action and I do not see a future or need for them to exist,” said Andre Denisson, a fan from Sweden. His sentiment reflects a broader apprehension within the anime community. Many fans are concerned that the unique visual and narrative elements of the anime may not translate well to live action. Ander Guerrero, an anime enthusiast from Spain, expressed doubt about the CGI capabilities, stating, “The anime looks incredible mainly because of the fight sequences, which could be hard to replicate in live action.”

The original Solo Leveling anime captivated audiences, even surpassing fan favorites like Demon Slayer and One Piece to become the most-watched series on Crunchyroll, according to Sony. The series’ engaging story features main character Sung Jin-woo, initially considered mankind’s “weakest weapon,” who gains the unique ability to “level up” his powers following a harrowing near-death experience. Fans are doubtful that Netflix can recreate the same excitement and depth in a live-action format.

Challenges in adapting anime into live-action are significant. Geoff Thew, who runs the popular YouTube channel “Mother’s Basement,” points out that “things that work, dramatically and aesthetically, in the heightened reality of animation don’t always translate to live action.” The iconic moments that define the original series must remain recognizable, even when altered for a different medium.

Historically, Hollywood’s attempts to adapt anime have faced backlash. The 2009 film Dragonball Evolution was heavily criticized, leading the scriptwriter to issue a public apology. Similarly, the 2017 adaptation of Ghost in the Shell, starring Scarlett Johansson, was criticized for whitewashing and reportedly lost over $60 million at the box office. Despite this rocky history, studios remain determined to pursue live-action adaptations, with several high-profile projects currently in development.

For instance, production company Legendary is working on a film adaptation of Gundam, a military science fiction anime series, while Lionsgate is reportedly developing Naruto, another popular anime. Emerald King, a Japanese culture expert at the University of Tasmania, notes that the growth of the anime market, valued at approximately $34 billion in 2024 and projected to exceed $60 billion by 2030, may drive this trend.

Data from Netflix indicates that more than half of its 300 million subscribers watch anime, with one billion views recorded in 2024, showcasing a significant increase in interest. Parisa Haghighat, a 34-year-old fan from the UK, remarked on the shift in perception, stating, “Watching anime used to be like ‘for weirdos’… now it’s more common and cool.”

The COVID-19 pandemic played a crucial role in this cultural shift, as many found solace in binge-watching anime. Cathy Boxall, global head of entertainment at marketing agency Dentsu, notes that audiences appreciate anime for its emotional complexity and genre diversity. Research indicates that fatigue with Hollywood franchises is prompting some viewers to explore anime, with one in ten respondents in a Dentsu study citing a desire to escape typical Hollywood tropes.

Despite these challenges, Netflix appears to view live-action adaptations as a means to attract new audiences. Alex Cameron of Parrot Analytics suggests that live-action remakes could lead viewers to seek out the original anime, enhancing viewer retention and engagement.

Lessons from past failures are informing Netflix’s approach. The streaming service’s 2023 adaptation of One Piece received praise for its international cast and respectful treatment of the original material, in contrast to earlier adaptations. Dr. King emphasizes the need for authenticity in adaptations, stating that creators must be aware of the cultural nuances embedded in the source material.

As anticipation grows for the live-action version of Solo Leveling, there is cautious optimism among fans. The production will feature a Korean cast and crew, which many believe will preserve the story’s cultural integrity. “I’m excited about the live-action because it will introduce a lot more people to the Solo Leveling world,” said Archie Moyo, a fan from Zimbabwe.

While the live-action adaptation of Solo Leveling aims to capture the essence of the original, the success of the project may hinge on its ability to resonate with both existing fans and new viewers alike. As the trend of adapting anime continues, the outcome of this latest endeavor will likely shape the future of live-action interpretations within the genre.